Escape winter with an evening in ‘Tuscany’

When you have had enough of suffering sub-zero windchill and shoveling show, consider getting away from it all with a trip to Carlucci Rosemont. As you walk though the front door, you know you are someplace special. Inviting tables set with crisp linens in rooms featuring paintings of Tuscany scenes make it clear that this is going to be a dining experience that will chase the chill away.

Sit down to a steaming serving of Frutti de Mare, a mixture of shrimp, scallops, mussels, scampi, calamari and half of a Maine Lobster sitting on a bed of pasta and bathed in a traditional white wine tomato sauce. Feel the warmth as you feast on lamb osso bucco or tender veal picatta. You will quickly realize that this is authentic Italian cuisine that is slow simmered using only the freshest seasonal ingredients.

It is easy to forget the cold outside and feel that you are sitting on a sun-drenched terrace in Italy, especially if you are sipping a glass of wine from Carlucci's award-winning wine list. Carlucci Rosemont also offers live music on Friday and Saturday night so it is a one-stop evening of fun and food. The comfortable bar is welcoming with a great selection of signature cocktails.

Remember that Carlucci has private spaces available for groups of 10 to 300, so bring the friends and family. Whether it is a wedding, a birthday or just a break from a dreary winter day, Carlucci Rosemont, conveniently located at 6111 North River Road in Rosemont, is an ideal choice. Reservations are suggested by calling 847-518-0900 or visiting carluccirosemont.com.